Romola Garai & Shaun Evans in ITV Spy Thriller ‘Betrayal’

ITV Studios Expands Global Footprint with New Dramas, Reality Revivals, and Stage Adaptations

A wave of new productions and partnerships signals continued growth for ITV Studios, encompassing gripping espionage thrillers, popular franchise renewals, and innovative entertainment formats.

ITV Studios is bolstering its content slate with a diverse range of projects, from high-stakes dramas to unscripted reality series and captivating stage productions. The company is also strengthening international partnerships, especially in Asia, signaling a commitment to global expansion and format versatility.

Espionage and Psychological Thrillers Take Center Stage

production is underway on “Betrayal,” a four-part espionage thriller set to premiere on ITV1 and ITVX in 2026. The series, helmed by BAFTA and Emmy-nominated director Julian Jarrold (“A Very Royal Scandal,” “This england”), explores the psychological toll of modern intelligence work. Shaun Evans (“Endeavour,” “Vigil”) stars as John Hughes, an MI5 operative grappling with the demands of his profession as his personal life unravels. Opposite him, Romola Garai plays Claire, a GP whose trust is tested by the secrecy surrounding Hughes’ work.

The drama, penned by award-winning playwright David Eldridge, follows Hughes’ investigation into a British-Iranian informant that takes a deadly turn, prompting scrutiny from his superiors. “Betrayal” boasts an ensemble cast including Zahra Ahmadi, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Gamba Cole, and Omid Djalili, and is produced by Irma inniss (“Mr Loverman”). Executive producers include MammothS Damien Timmer and Evans himself.

Did you know?-Shaun Evans, who stars in “Betrayal,” also served as an executive producer for the series. This marks a notable step for the actor, allowing him to contribute creatively beyond his on-screen performance.

Expanding Reach in Asia with “The Voice” and “Catchpoint”

ITV Studios is deepening its relationship with Sri Lanka’s Sirasa TV,renewing “The Voice” franchise deals and commissioning the first-ever asian adaptation of the physical game show “Catchpoint.” Sirasa TV will produce the third and fourth seasons of “The Voice Sri Lanka” and “The Voice Teens,” respectively, with both seasons airing this year. The format has proven to be a “cultural phenomenon” in Sri Lanka as its debut in 2019, consistently achieving strong ratings.

“Sirasa Catchpoint” is slated to launch in mid-July 2025,bringing the popular quiz and physical challenge format to Asian audiences. The U.K. version of “Catchpoint” previously attracted 3 million viewers and a 20.2% share on BBC One. According to Augustus Dulgaro, executive VP Asia pacific at ITV Studios, “The expansion of our partnership with Sirasa TV is a testament to the strength and versatility of our formats.”

Reader question:-What other popular game show formats do you think would translate well to different cultural contexts, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Disney+ Greenlights U.K. Reality Series

disney+ has commissioned three new unscripted series from the U.K.,including a contemporary reimagining of the dating format “Blind Date.” The 10-episode series, executive produced by Matthew Worthy and Kieran Doherty for Stellify Media and Graham Stuart for SO TV, will feature contestants selecting from hidden suitors with updated twists on the classic format.

The slate also includes “The Rooneys” (10 episodes), an observational series following the family life of Coleen and Wayne Rooney as she pursues entrepreneurial ventures and he manages family responsibilities. Additionally, “Jamie and Sophie: Raising Chelsea” will track “Made in Chelsea” alumni Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo as they prepare for parenthood. These series were commissioned by Sean Doyle, Executive Director Unscripted, with a focus on “female-skewed factual” programming.

From Screen to Stage: “50 First Dates” Comes to London’s West End

The new London West End stage musical adaptation of “50 First Dates” will run at The Other Palace from September 14 to November 16. Georgina Castle (“mean Girls”) stars as Lucy Whitmore, an artist with short-term memory loss, opposite Josh St. Clair (“Ghost”) as Henry Roth, roles famously portrayed by Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler in the 2004 film.

The ensemble cast includes Georgia Arron, John Marquez, and Ricky Rojas. The adaptation, directed by multi-Tony winner Casey Nicholaw and featuring original songs, explores themes of love and second chances. Production is a collaboration between ATG Productions, Bad Robot Live, and Gavin Kalin Productions.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights with “Screen Players Film Club”

A new podcast, “Screen Players Film Club,” launched today on major podcast platforms, offering intimate conversations with film industry creatives about beloved movies. Created by The Script factory in partnership with Soho Square Studios and Olympic Studios, the PODSSS production is hosted by Charlotte bogard Macleod and features interviews with talents like Sam Taylor-Johnson and Simon Beaufoy.

Most episodes are recorded live at The Cinema in Selfridges before a movie-loving audience. Season One will delve into the making of films including “Nowhere Boy,” “Slumdog Millionaire,” “Conclave,” “Marianne & Leonard: Words of Love,” and “Drive.” Bastille’s Dan Smith composed the jingle and will discuss his documentary-inspired single “Leonard and Marianne” in episode four. The series aims to provide unique insights into the filmmaking process,from initial concept to final realization.

ITV’s Commitment to Diversity and inclusion

ITV Studios’ ongoing expansion is not just about geographic reach; it’s also deeply rooted in a commitment to diverse storytelling and inclusive representation. This includes initiatives both in front of and behind the camera, ensuring varied perspectives and authentic narratives. The success of their new productions hinges not only on the quality of the content but also on the authenticity and depth of the stories they tell. This focus on diversity and inclusion is increasingly crucial in a global media landscape, reflecting shifts in audience expectations and the industry’s evolving values.

Diversity in casting,as seen in “betrayal” wiht its ensemble cast,is a key aspect of this strategy. ITV actively seeks to represent a wide range of backgrounds, ethnicities, and experiences in its projects. They are also investing in the advancement of diverse talent through mentoring programs and partnerships with organizations dedicated to promoting greater inclusion in the media.

Unscripted Formats: Reflecting the Modern World

The shift towards unscripted content, as exemplified by the commission of new Disney+ series in the U.K., allows ITV to explore contemporary social issues and relationships in more immediate ways. Series like “The Rooneys” and “Jamie and Sophie: Raising Chelsea” offer intimate glimpses into the lives of real people, albeit in a produced surroundings. This kind of programming provides opportunities to showcase diversity in family structures, lifestyles, and professional pursuits. Furthermore, the success of formats such as “Blind Date” hinges on the representation of modern dating dynamics – which further reflects ITV’s commitment.

The Power of Stage Adaptations

The upcoming stage adaptation of “50 First Dates” provides another avenue for addressing themes of diversity and inclusion. The casting choices, with Georgina castle and josh St. clair in the lead roles, and the supporting cast demonstrate the company’s commitment to showcasing a broad range of talent. Moreover, stage productions offer opportunities to adapt and reinterpret stories, providing fresh perspectives on well-known narratives and offering a platform to underrepresented voices in terms of inclusivity-both in the production team and in cast selection.

Behind the Scenes: Cultivating Talent And